Director Dann Peterson on "A Christmas Carol"
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Lyric Arts had the opportunity to sit down with Dann Peterson, the director of the beloved holiday classic, A Christmas Carol.
LA: Tell us a little bit about why this particular show interested you.
DP: Ever since I saw a production of A Christmas Carol in the early years of the Guthrie staging the show, I have been intrigued with the idea of staging the show. I also am drawn to shows that focus on interesting characters, and A Christmas Carol has its share of fascinating characters.
LA: For those that are unfamiliar with A Christmas Carol can you tell us about the show?
DP: It is the story of Scrooge who has made some bad choices in his life that have lead him to be bitter and miserly; not even the joy of Christmas can get to this hard-hearted, business-focused old man until he is shown what the future hold for him if he doesn’t change his ways.
LA: Why do you think A Christmas Carol such a beloved Christmas show for people?
DP: The story celebrates the real meaning of Christmas – redemption. It shows us that we truly are a human family and what we do and believe effects others.
LA: Being that you have directed at Lyric Arts in the past, how has A Christmas Carol been a different experience for you?
DP: For one, it is not a musical; that has allowed me a great deal more time to focus on character development. Knowing the stage from past experience has also allowed me to be aware of creating interesting stage pictures and movement.
LA: What do you feel are the "wow" elements of A Christmas Carol?
DP: Even though this is not a musical, I have added more music to many of the scenes. I think the Ghosts are a wow factor. I also believe the set and costumes will be fabulous. There are some other secret wow factors I don’t wish to reveal now.
LA: Comment on the talent level in the cast.
DP: Once again I have been blessed to work with a cast of very talented people of all ages. It is because of their talents that I have been able to add some wow factors.
LA: Why should people come out and see this Christmas production?
DP: Come see the show to celebrate the real joy of Christmas and bring the whole family! It will make you feel good and blessed.
LA: Tell us what is something that you are particular excited about this show coming to together.
DP: I am always amazed when a show comes together after weeks of rehearsal and as we add new elements how the entire experience evolves into a terrific show. I am excited about all the elements coming together and how supportive the cast members are of each other. I think the scenes near the end of the show will be a truly emotional experience for the audience.
LA: Anything else you’d like to touch on that wasn’t mentioned our asked.
DP: It has been a great deal of fun working with Christmas music and themes even as early as late September. I feel the Christmas spirit should prevail all year; this show has allowed me to experience an extended Christmas season.
